TSA Stops Woman from Bringing Handgun onto Flight at Washington Dulles

By Ivan PetrenkoJul 8, 2024 10:34 AMNews
Share:
Handgun with bullets on black fabric
Confiscated handgun at Dulles security checkpoint. Source: unsplash

On Friday, June 28, Transportation Security Administration (TSA) officers at Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD) prevented a woman from Indiana from boarding her flight with a handgun. The .380 caliber firearm was discovered unloaded in her carry-on bag during a routine X-ray screening at the security checkpoint.

The firearm detection prompted TSA officials to alert the Metropolitan Washington Airports Authority Police. The police quickly responded, confiscated the weapon, and issued a citation to the woman for attempting to bring a weapon through the checkpoint.

In addition to facing a weapons charge, the woman now faces a significant financial penalty. The TSA imposes civil penalties for carrying firearms through checkpoints, which can reach up to $15,000. It is important to note that even travelers with concealed carry permits or TSA PreCheck® privileges are not exempt from these rules and can lose their PreCheck status if found with a gun at a checkpoint.

Travelers are allowed to transport firearms only in checked baggage, provided the firearms are unloaded and secured in a hard-sided, locked case. The case must be declared at the airline check-in counter. Detailed guidelines on traveling with firearms are available on the TSA website.

In 2023 alone, TSA officers intercepted 6,735 firearms at airport security checkpoints across the country, with 93 percent of these weapons being loaded. At Washington Dulles International Airport, TSA officers have already confiscated 10 firearms this year.

Bringing a firearm to an airport security checkpoint results in federal civil penalties, which vary based on the circumstances. Additionally, travelers found with firearms may lose their TSA PreCheck® privileges. It's crucial for passengers to familiarize themselves with both federal and local firearm laws to avoid legal issues.

For any uncertainties about what items can be brought on a flight, travelers can utilize the free myTSA app or contact TSA directly through Twitter, Facebook Messenger, or text. This ensures compliance with TSA regulations and helps avoid costly penalties or delays.

This incident serves as a reminder of the strict regulations in place to maintain safety and security at airports nationwide.

Top Articles
Not Just a Suitcase: My Personal Checklist for Smart Travelers in 2025

Not Just a Suitcase: My Personal Checklist for Smart Travelers in 2025

Mar 3, 2025 18:00 PM
Practical Eco-Friendly Travel Solutions for Sustainable Tourism

Practical Eco-Friendly Travel Solutions for Sustainable Tourism

Feb 14, 2025 15:00 PM

Top Tips for Securing Your Luggage and Preventing Loss

Feb 7, 2025 14:00 PM

Your Guide to Hand Luggage and Baggage Rules

Feb 4, 2025 20:00 PM
More News
Air Canada aircraft taxiing at the airport

From Toronto to Tirana: Air Canada and ITA Airways Expand Travel Routes

Jul 14, 2025 23:47 PM
A Stagecoach double-decker bus stops on a city street in front of a historic brick building

Summer Bus Cuts in Cambridgeshire and Bedfordshire Challenge Access to Outdoor Destinations

Jul 14, 2025 22:31 PM

Alpine Town in Switzerland Combines Ski Season with Lake Sports

Jul 14, 2025 21:25 PM

Cancellations and Disruptions: Southend Airport Closed Following Aircraft Incident

Jul 14, 2025 18:48 PM
Modern hotel bedroom with neutral tones and ambient lighting

New Hotel Near Dublin Offers Quiet Alternative for Exploring Ireland's Heartland

Jul 14, 2025 17:32 PM
View of Helsinki Airport terminal with passengers silhouetted against large windows

Finland’s Airports to Operate Normally During Peak July Travel After Strike Threat Lifted

Jul 13, 2025 21:28 PM
Delta Airlines Boeing 767 aircraft climbing after takeoff at sunset

New Direct Flight Links Utah to Peru’s Natural Wonders

Jul 12, 2025 21:36 PM
Interior of a Kimpton Ubud guest room with garden view

Kimpton Hotel to Open for the First Time in Ubud’s Historic Centre

Jul 12, 2025 13:41 PM
Protester in high-visibility vest shouting through megaphone during a strike

Glasgow Airport Strike to Hit Summer Flights and Holiday Plans

Jul 12, 2025 05:27 AM

Calder Valley Route Boost Ensures Smoother Travel During Huddersfield Station Upgrade

Jul 12, 2025 03:34 AM

Croatia Airlines Connects Milan to Zagreb with Direct Flights

Jul 11, 2025 23:45 PM
Boats anchored near Es Vedrà rock off the coast of Cala Molí, Ibiza

EDITION Moves Beyond Hotels with Series of Beach Events in Ibiza

Jul 11, 2025 22:52 PM
Stylish bed with decorative pillows and modern lighting in a villa bedroom

Maldives Beach Villas Redesigned to Meet Growing Demand for Privacy and Nature Immersion

Jul 11, 2025 18:38 PM
flydubai aircraft taxiing on airport runway

flydubai Launches All-in-One Summer Travel Packages for Regional Trips

Jul 11, 2025 16:46 PM
Railway maintenance vehicles on track under clear blue sky

Rail Closures on Brighton Line This Sunday Could Disrupt Weekend Travel Plans

Jul 11, 2025 04:23 AM

Eurostar Updates Route: New Daily Services Between London and Amsterdam

Jul 11, 2025 02:39 AM

Wizz Air’s Early Return Reconnects Tel Aviv with Key Cities

Jul 10, 2025 23:47 PM
Workers in high-visibility gear conduct railway maintenance using machinery on a curved track under construction

Rail Maintenance in South Wales to Disrupt Travel Near Cardiff Airport and Coastal Attractions

Jul 10, 2025 21:31 PM
Jet2.com airplane flying against a clear blue sky

Jet2.com Expands UK Winter Flights to Key Alpine Destinations for 2026/27 Season

Jul 10, 2025 19:25 PM
Modern hotel bedroom with dark accent wall and stylish bedding

Bangkok’s Historic Anantara Siam Hotel Updates Facilities While Welcoming Guests

Jul 10, 2025 18:48 PM
Passenger using smartphone during a flight

Free In-Flight Wi-Fi Coming to All China Airlines Cabins This August

Jul 10, 2025 09:32 AM
Railway workers and equipment on a closed section of track during construction works

Bridge Works to Sever Rail Traffic Between Kew and Barnes for Nine Days

Jul 9, 2025 21:27 PM

Wizz Air Launches Mobile Feature to Manage Summer Flight Disruptions

Jul 9, 2025 19:34 PM

Facial Recognition Boarding Now in Use at JFK Terminal 1

Jul 9, 2025 17:43 PM
Emirates aircraft taking off from runway

Emirates Adjusts Gulf Travel with New Aircraft on Key Route

Jul 9, 2025 09:29 AM
Rail workers performing track maintenance at a train station during daytime

Planned Rail Works to Impact Night Trains Between Llandudno and Holyhead

Jul 9, 2025 07:36 AM